Though symbols often are what we ourselves make of them, the flag is constant in expressing beliefs Americans share, beliefs in law and peace and that freedom which sustains the human spirit. The case here today forces recognition of the costs to which those beliefs commit us. It is poignant but fundamental fact that the flag protects those who hold it in contempt.

Soldiers do not have freedom of speech - charges of insolence, etc prevent that. Soldiers do not have freedom of association - you can't form a military union, or join various militant organisations. And of course soldiers must obey orders. Soldiers give up freedoms to protect the freedoms of others.

Soldiers exist to risk their lives for others, to protect the civilian population. Soldiers die so civilians don't have to die. Soldiers die to protect civilians who hold them in contempt.

Soldiers don't expect gratitude or respect for this. Historically, soldiers have not been given either. 1 stupid girl flips the bird to a man's grave. But 1,000,000 others dodge their taxes, taxes which go to rehabilitate wounded soldiers or care for their graves or offer mental health treatment, and petition the government to end programmes which employ veterans - is that not also ingratitude and contempt? Should all those 1,000,000 people lose their jobs, too?

No. Her contempt for soldiers is at least open and honest, the contempt of most of the population for soldiers is sneaky and craven.

The US Military and in fact the USA, most certainly do show gratitude and respect to our Soldiers and Veterans. Please check your facts.

The Congressional Medal of Honor, Silver star and the Bronze Star just to name the top three awards given in battle. We have parades and a little holiday called Veterans day. Foundation after foundation how about Wounded Warriors, The American legion, Purple Heart Assc. Everybody and their Mothers have a bumper sticker say that they are grateful to our military

As for taxes, we have far more that a puny number like a million people cheating on their taxes.

Hell Kyle half our Country does not pay income taxes, Gee maybe we should blame them for the lack of programs for vets.

Her contempt was open and honest? My ass, she sure isn't holding to that now. Either she intentionally disrespected The Unknowns or as she is saying now she was just screwing around and didn't mean any disrespect.